Tarique Writes ‘Return’: Curiosity Fills the Virtual Sky as Supporters Track Flights and Flood Social Media
After nearly 18 years in exile, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman is returning to Bangladesh—an event that has stirred both physical gatherings and intense activity across the digital world.
For years, Tarique Rahman led his party from abroad, staying connected with leaders and activists through virtual platforms. His presence was felt through online messages, statements, and regular engagement on social media. That long, almost surreal distance is now coming to an end as he prepares to step onto Bangladeshi soil on Thursday, 25 December, ahead of the 13th national parliamentary election. His return is also deeply personal, as he comes to see his ailing mother, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who is currently receiving treatment.
To welcome him, a massive reception stage has been set up in the capital near Kuril Mor, along the northern section of July-36 Road beside the 300 Feet Road. The bamboo-and-wood structure, measuring 48 feet by 36 feet, is equipped with large LED screens. Displayed prominently against the backdrop of the national flag is a bold message: “The Historic return of Tarique Rahman.”
Supporters began gathering at the venue from the night of 24 December. Many were seen taking selfies beneath party symbols and sharing them instantly on social media. Others went live on Facebook, documenting the atmosphere in real time. At the same time, thousands of eyes turned to the virtual sky, closely tracking the progress of Bangladesh Biman flight BG202 through real-time flight-tracking websites such as Flightradar24, FlightStats, and FlightAware.
According to sources, Tarique Rahman checked in at London’s Heathrow Airport at around 10:15 pm Bangladesh time on 24 December and boarded the flight bound for Bangladesh. He is accompanied by his wife, Dr. Zubaida Rahman, their daughter Zaima Rahman, and even their beloved pet cat, Jebu.
Midway through the journey, Tarique Rahman shared a photograph from his airplane seat on his verified Facebook page on Thursday morning. The caption was simple yet powerful: “Return.” Within moments, the post was flooded with reactions and welcoming messages from supporters at home and abroad.
The aircraft carrying him departed Heathrow at 12:17 am Bangladesh time on Thursday. It is scheduled to land first at Sylhet Osmani International Airport before finally arriving at Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, where anticipation continues to build—both on the ground and across the screens of countless supporters following every moment of his journey home.
DBTech/IH/EK
